-Mario Nunez replied by email that there is some info on a captain's bed in a back issue of "Fine Homebuilding." Haven't had time to go to the library to find it yet, though.

-build the pedestal out of modular units that can be moved seperately. When I build a captain's pedestal, I build two units that are approx 24" deep, 24-30" high, and as long as the bed is. these are then joined together by a seperate piece at the head and foot of the piece and drawn tight by use of a wedged mortise and tenon joint. The joinery is simple, strong, and can be taken apart for easy moving without weakening the bed. I did up a set of plans for this type of bed a few years ago, but I'm afraid they are currently in storage (I'm in the middle of moving across the country myself). When I get settled in, maybe I'll scan them in and post them.